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12th Meeting of ASEAN Chief Justices

The 12th Meeting of the Council of ASEAN Chief Justices (CACJ) convened on November 15, 2025, under the auspices of the Supreme Court of Singapore. This significant gathering marked another step toward enhancing judicial cooperation among ASEAN nations.

Overview of the Meeting

During this assembly, Chief Justice Sundaresh Menon of Singapore was elected to oversee the council for an unprecedented third term. The meeting was preceded by notable events on November 13 and 14, organized jointly by the CACJ and the ASEAN Law Association, which fostered discussions on various topics relevant to regional judicial matters.

In a groundbreaking move, Timor-Leste participated as an observer for the first time since its admission as the 11th ASEAN member in October 2025, showcasing the council's expanding inclusivity.

Key Achievements

One of the primary highlights of the meeting was the adoption of the Model Framework for Court Communication in Cross-Border Insolvency Proceedings among ASEAN judiciaries. This framework aims to improve communication between courts in the region concerning insolvency matters, ensuring that each judiciary can better coordinate responses and share information.

Additionally, on November 14, the Supreme Court of Singapore and the Supreme Court of the Philippines signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance cross-border communications regarding insolvency cases. This critical agreement formalizes processes to improve efficiency in managing insolvency and restructuring matters between the two nations' courts.

Discussions and Challenges

The two-day event included discussions led by various judges specializing in insolvency and intellectual property (IP). In particular, the insolvency judges deliberated on the economic and geopolitical impacts influencing insolvency and restructuring challenges. Topics included recognition of judgments and the significant benefits of enhanced communication between regional judicators.

Meanwhile, the IP judges focused on contemporary challenges posed by generative artificial intelligence on patent and copyright laws. They examined governance issues and jurisdictional complexities alongside potential resolutions to cross-border disputes through alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.

Signing of the Singapore Declaration

At the conclusion of the CACJ meeting, all Chief Justices and Heads of Delegations present signed the Singapore Declaration. This declaration is a continuation of a tradition established in 2015, designed to make the decisions reached at CACJ meetings publicly accessible. The Singapore Declaration reaffirms the commitment of southeast Asian nations to uphold judicial integrity and to improve cooperation among member states.

As developments unfold from this meeting, the CACJ aims to build upon these advancements, addressing the legal intricacies faced by member countries through enhanced dialogue and collaboration.

For more information about CACJ and its initiatives, visit the Council's official page.